Just like any other parts of the world, Richmond also has its fair share of concerns with regards to home maintenance, and one of the major issues that every homeowner face is blocked drains. It’s frustrating, it’s annoying, but it’s also a common occurrence. Instead of constantly being unprepared and panicking about blocked drains, the better way is to understand what causes them. Here are some top things that cause blocked drains in Richmond.
1. Hair: The notorious and primary culprit of blocked drains in both bathrooms and kitchens is the hair fallout. When hair combines with various substances like oil, grease, and soap, it can build up over time causing a serious blockage. Regularly clearing the collection of hair from your drain stoppers can help mitigate this issue.
2. Oil and Grease: Oil and grease are often culprits in blocked drains, particularly in the kitchen. When warm, these substances are liquid but, as they cool down they solidify, build up, and eventually, can block the drain. It is always wise to avoid washing cooking oils, and greasy substances down the sink.
3. Tree Roots: In more suburban areas of Richmond, where households have robust garden spaces, tree roots can cause a significant problem. Tree roots can grow into plumbing lines, causing them to crack, and therefore creating a blockage. Regular maintenance, checking for any signs of a tree root invasion, is essential.
4. Foreign Items: Often, foreign items are the cause of blocked drains within a house. This can range from children’s toys, soap, toilet paper, food debris, or sanitary items. These things should be thrown in the trash, not flushed or washed down a drain.
5. Toilet Paper Buildup: This is another common cause for blocked drains in Richmond. When too much toilet paper or products like wet wipes are used and subsequently flushed down the toilet, it can lead to a blockage.
6. Heavy Rain and Storms: Seasonal changes and heavy rainfall can also lead to blockages, especially in outside drains. As leaves, dirt and other items are washed into drains, they can clog them up and potentially cause problems.
The key to all these issues is regular inspection and maintenance. In Richmond, the upkeep of the sewerage and drainage systems should be a top priority for every homeowner.
You can employ drain catchers to trap hair, make sure to blocked drains richmond dispose of your oil and grease responsibly, keep an eye out for your trees’ roots, mind the amount and type of toilet paper you use, and always know what should or should not be flushed down your toilet.
In spite of your best efforts, if you do find yourself dealing with a blocked drain, be sure to call in professional help without delay. Richmond offers a multitude of drain and plumbing services equipped to tackle even the most stubborn block. Don’t let blocked drains in Richmond become a recurring nightmare for your household. Time, patience, awareness, and a bit of professional help when needed can ensure that your home’s drainage systems operate smoothly and efficiently.